PUBLISHER SPEED DATING – a chance to show your work to publishers. Attention emerging illustrators! We have such an exciting opportunity to share with you.
We have a select number of spaces available in our biannual Publisher Speed Dating session, which runs alongside the launch of our mentoring scheme’s Emerging Illustrator Exhibition. It’s a chance to meet and show your portfolio to a range of top children’s publishers and agents.
If you are an unpublished, unagented children’s book illustrator with a portfolio of work who wants to take your first steps in the industry, and can travel to Edinburgh on Friday 28th November, we want to hear from you!
How to Apply
To apply for a place, please email [email protected] including ALL of the following, with the subject line ‘[YOUR NAME] Publisher Speed-Dating’.
1. Full name
2. Email address
3. Phone number
4. Link to website
5. Link to instagram
6. A short statement (500 words max) on why you should be selected for a place
7. A three page narrative sequence of illustrations in colour that clearly demonstrates continuity, character development and an emotional connection with children
If you have any questions about the application process, please email us at [email protected]
Once applications are processed, we will be in touch with shortlisted illustrators to arrange an interview online.
Please only apply if you can be in Edinburgh in person on the afternoon of 28th November 2025. Unfortunately we are unable to cover travel costs.
The deadline for applications is 23:59pm Sunday 26th October 2025.
points to note:
- You will retain the rights to the images you submit as examples of your work; they be used by us for any other purpose other than internally by us to assess your suitability for the slots.
- Re images submitted: the guidelines are open to interpretation - essentially we're trying to reflect the core picture-book-making skill of showing the same character/s across different settings (emotional/narrative/physical). So we're looking for images with the same character/s featured, following some kind of narrative. Within that, you can create whatever feels best to you.
While we have publicised this opportunity, please note that: (i) the application and selection process is managed by the advertising company/organisation; and (ii) we rely on them to: provide accurate, up-to-date details about themselves and the opportunity; ensure that opportunities are ethical and paid fairly. To report a listing, please email [email protected].